Come home to Scotland and celebrate your Scottish rootsAmy Macdonald, Triple Olympic medal winner Chris Hoy, actor Brian Cox, golfer Sam Torrance, actor Sean Connery, and singer Lulu invite you back home this Homecoming Year. Throughout 2009, we're celebrating Scotland as the home of Robert Burns, Whisky, Golf, and Great Minds & Innovation.

On the 25th and 26th July 2009 Edinburgh witnessed one of the largest clan gatherings in history. Holyrood Park hosted a magnificent Highland Games over the two days, then on the Saturday evening Clan members paraded up the historic Royal Mile and took their seats on the castle esplanade for a spectacular Clan Pageant

BE PART OF the greatest clan gathering the world has ever seen. Clan Gathering and Highland Games to celebrate Scotland’s rich history and cultural traditions.

A trip to Scotland - a trip back home - is surely the best way to feel connected to this ancient land. A way to feel part of something greater than the here and now. A way to truly belong.

Is your clan attending?Clans Attending: Below is a list of the clans which will be attending The Gathering 2009. We have custom one week itineraries for all Scottish Families, culminating with the Clan Gathering in Edinbugh. Don't miss yours! By the way, Mc and Mac can be either Scottish or Irish. For our Irish family name tours, please click here.

Many clans can be traced back to a specific part of Scotland, the MacLeods of Skye for example, or the MacNabs of St Fillan on Loch Earn. For those with a clan history, a trip to the clan homeland is an absolute must. You can find out more about your own particular clan. Questions? Contact EGT

We have clan self drive itineraries all year long.Clan Homelands tourSome clans have 3 and 4 day tours available throughout homecoming year.Prices including Edinburgh accommodation - special Gathering Packages Tours all start and finish in Edinburgh All the tour portions of the packages depart from Edinburgh at 09.00Packages include:Accommodation (min 3* Hotel) for the number of nights specifiedBreakfast each dayA hop-on hop-off Edinburgh city tour ticketThe specified Clan Homelands tourNot included Meals other than breakfast, entry fees, Gathering Passports, optional tips for your driver/guide

Other dates (not including the Gathering or Edinburgh)Clan tour Duration Hotel double Hotel single B&B dbl B&B sgl Departure dates (standard tours) day/mo/yrCampbell 3 days 614 712 445 561 05/10/09 *ENDED*MacDonald 4 days 846 1041 641 819 12/10/09 *TOMORROW*Donnachaidh (Robertson) 3 days 605 703 463 579 19/10/09MacGregor 3 days 659 765 516 632 08/10/09 *ENDED*MacLeod 4 days 819 1015 605 765 21/10/09Cameron 3 days 605 703 463 579 15/10/09Maximum group size of 16Clan Campbell Clan Campbell 9 Day Tour This tour explores the ancestral lands of the mighty clan Campbell. . The Campbell Clan has long been one of the most numerous and powerful clans, gaining allegiances from many smaller clans over the centuries by both diplomatic and other means. Their success is owed to the remarkable succession of clan chiefs referred to as MacCailein Mor in Gaelic. The early Campbell homelands cover the area to the north and west of Glasgow, from Argyll northwards into the Grampian mountains and on into Perthshire. The itinerary takes you around the beautiful and rugged northern area of Scotland where the Campbells have left their marks, and mentions only a few of the many Campbell castles and strongholds.Day 1 Arrive Edinburgh. Check into accommodation Day 2 Edinburgh city tour

Day 3 From Edinburgh we head north and travel towards Stirling, passing the fields of Bannockburn, where the great King Robert the Bruce was victorious over the “ auld enemy” England during a period known as the Scottish wars of Independence. The Campbells were staunch supporters of Bruce, and indeed descendants of Duncan Campbell can claim their lineage back to our hero King. Close by Stirling castle is where the Campbells, having had their title of Earldom restored to them in 1661, took up residence in a town house and styled it Argylls Lodging, after abandoning their castle in nearby Dollar, Castle Campbell. Continuing east, we visit Castle Campbell, formely known as Castle Gloom, until an Act of Parliament, saw the name being officially changed in1489! Dating from the 1400’s the castle sits in lofty position, fastened between the Ochil hills. Access is only available by walking to the head of Dollar glen following the Burn of care on one side and the Burn of sorrow on the other. Continuing north we pass by the ruined castle Dochart on Loch Dochart, built in 16c by Black Duncan Campbell, whose ambition was to be able to walk on his lands from west to the east of Scotland. He built 7 castles stretching from Balcardine castle in the west to Taymouth castle in the east. As we drive further into the Highlands, and deep into Campbell territory, we become very aware of the clans immense strength, often to the detriment of their neighbouring clans, such as clan MacGregor. Heading west towards Dalmally, we stop for photos of Kilchurn Castle, built in 1406 by Colin Campbell. A magnificent imposing ruin, on the shores of Loch Awe, nestling beside Ben Cruachan, where the Campbell war cry would resonate “ cruachan!” From the shores of Loch Awe, we head to Inverary, an 18c Georgian town, and the official home to the clan. Inverary castle, in contrast to the others, reflects the period in which it was built from 1747 onwards, when the troubles in the turbulent north were being neutralised. A mix of Scottish baronial and neo gothic architecture, its immense presence overlooks the small town built at the same time to enhance the view from the chiefs home. Continuing west we head through Kilmartin glen, and on passed yet another Campbell castle - Carnassarie, before hugging the sea bound road towards Oban.

Day 4 Our second day, will be spent driving though Appin, where Colin Campbell, a government factor working in the area in18c was killed by person unknown as he rode through the glen. James Stewart was the unfortunate scapegoat in this intoxicating mystery captured in Robert Louis Stevensons book “ kidnapped”. From here we arrive in Glencoe, the site of the infamous massacre, involving clan Campbell and clan MacDonald. As neighbours, tension arose between these two clans, and previous conflicts inevitably caused a divide of dislike culminating in the dark night of 13th Feb 1692. Onwards through Fort William, and up the Great Glen to Loch Ness with ample opportunities to try and glimpse “ Nessie”, before our arrival in the Highland capital of Inverness.

Day 5 Our final day will see us visit Culloden visitor centre, where clan Campbell faught on the side of the British forces against the young pretender Bonnie Prince Charlie in what was to become the last battle on British soil in 1746. A chance to walk out in the eerie silence of Drumossie moor, and reflect on a bloody day, and, in its aftermath, the serious repercussions for Highland Scotland. Heading south, we head eastwards at Killiecrankie for a short walk to view the leap by soldier Donald MacBean in his efforts to flee from the wild Jacobites hard on his tail! By Loch Tummel we continue to Kenmore, and a chance to visit the wonder of the single defended dwelling houses found on inland Lochs known as Crannogs. Views can also be seen here of Taymouth castle, the most easterly point of clan Campbells territory. The lands stretching from Oban to Aberfeldy became known as Breadalbane. Through Aberfeldy where the Black watch regiment was founded, with clan Campbell as one of its core loyal clans, we continue east for a last visit to Dunkeld, the smallest city in Scotland, before returning to Edinburgh. A journey packed with history and castles, demonstrating the sheer power of one of the most notorious of our Highlands clans - Clan Campbell.

Day 6 Free day in Edinburgh (optional day trips) Day 7 Free day in Edinburgh (optional day trips) Day 8 The Gathering events Day 9 The Gathering events Day 10 Depart for home

Clan MacDonald (Highlands)From the Lowlands of Scotland and her capital city Edinburgh, we journey in the footsteps of Clan MacDonald on this fascinating insight into the clan’s history. Clan Donald is a large clan with a proud history. Such was its far reaching influence that it would be impossible to explore all the clan heartlands in one trip. Instead, we have concentrated on the lands to the west of Scotland, particularly the Isle of Skye, one of the most romantic - and most beautiful - areas in the whole of the country. Head into Glencoe, crossing the sea to the island of Skye. See Duntulm castle, sitting on a rocky bluff with commanding views over the Minch to the outer isles, recognised as a Clan MacDonald stronghold. Our journey south takes us passed the ruins of Glengarry castle by Loch Oich, a former MacDonnell stronghold, and past some MacDonald battle sites. The Clan Donald were once rulers of the 'sea kingdom' on Scotland's west coast and found particular success in Skye where they become the self-styled Lords of the Isles. A visit here, and some of the other notable homelands, would provide a truly memorable experience for Macdonalds everywhere.

Clan Donnachaidh (Robertson) 7 Day Tour Visit the homelands of the Robertson clan with claims to be one the oldest clans in Scotland with direct links back to the Celtic Earls of Atholl with reports of them being present at the first recorded battle in Scottish history, the battle of Mons Graupius in 84AD. They also have claims to be the sole surviving branch of the royal line that occupied the throne of Scotland during the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries. Bannockburn, Dunkeld cathedral, pass of Killiecrankie, Blair Castle, home of the Atholl Highlanders and up to the 'falls of Bruar' where the Clan Donnachaidh museum is situated.

Day 1 Arrive Edinburgh. Check into accommodation Day 2 Edinburgh city tour

Day 3 Our journey will begin from Edinburgh and head north towards Stirling and the site of the greatest battle in Scottish history - The Battle of Bannockburn with the mighty King Robert the Bruce in the summer of 1314. Stirling is often described as being the brooch that clasps Highland and Lowland Scotland together, and because of the strategic position of the castle, the fields surrounding it are known collectively as the battlefields of Scotland. Bannockburn is the most significant, where members of Clan Donnachaidh fought alongside Robert the Bruce helping to defeat King Edward II of England. After spending time at Bannockburn and Stirling castle we will continue to Perth and then north to Dunkeld, a cathedral city which has links to the Robertson clan. Dunkeld cathedral, sitting on the banks of the river Tay was invaded by the Robertson clan in the 1400s when they went to the rescue of their fellow clansmen. A chance here to explore this beautiful, but highly significant city, and one time capital of Pictish Scotland before we continue north to Pitlochry for our overnight stay. Pitlochry is a Victorian town, famed these days for its ‘salmon ladder’, where homeward bound salmon are electronically counted as they head up the river to their spawning ground. Set in lovely Highland Perthshire, the town is ever popular, amidst gentle scenery, and a welcoming base from which to explore the further reaches of the north.

Day 4 We take a leisurely drive into the heart of the Robertson clan, stopping along the way at the pass of Killicrankie. The Robertson clan were involved here in this the first uprising by the Jacobites in 1689, as they sided with their ‘king across the water’ and tried valiantly to restore the Stuarts to the British throne, after he was deposed in 1688. An opportunity to view the spectacular leap across the river made by soldier Donald MacBean as he fled to safety, hotly pursued by the Jacobites! From here we will head past Blair Castle, home of the Atholl Highlanders and up to the ‘falls of Bruar’ where the Clan Donnachaidh museum is situated. After a generous stop here, where there will be ample time to visit the museum, take a stroll through the forest to the picturesque waterfall, or to shop, we will continue into Robertson territory visiting Struan church. Struan church is the ancient burial ground of the family. From here we will then travel to the present burial site of the Robertsons and the one remaining area of land belonging to the clan, and their ancestral home at Dun Alastair. After stopping in Kinloch Rannoch for lunch we will journey around Loch Rannoch taking in the stunning views of the ancestral ground with views including the mountain Schiehallion, the Caledonian hill of the Fairies. We will return to Pitlochry by Loch Tummel and another of the ancestral homes of the Robertsons at Port-an-eilean. This was the original ancestral seat of the clan chiefs. A chance here also to view the ‘Queens View’ so called after Queen Victoria stopped here to enjoy the views down Loch before ending our day in Pitlochry where we will overnight again.

Day 5 Our third day will see us leave Robertson territory and head northwards stopping off at a highland folk museum in Newtonmore. Here you will be able to imagine ‘the way of life’ that existed for Highlanders in past centuries before we continue past ruined Ruthven barracks. Ruthven barracks was built to house Government soldiers, in an attempt to try and subdue the north and bring the Highlander under control. Sadly a bit further north we will arrive at Culloden, near Inverness and the site of the famous battle of Culloden, which is the last battle to have been fought on British soil in 1746 with the Robertsons fighting on the Jacobite side. The chilling aftermath of the battle saw the Highlands placed under military occupation, and an entire way of life in the north shattered forever. We will wander out onto the battlefield and try to imagine that bleak and bloody day before we head to nearby Inverness, the Highland capital for lunch. Upon leaving Inverness we travel over the top end of Loch Ness, with a chance for you to try and spot the ever illusive creature that inhabits the murky depths of this the most famous stretch of water in the world! “Nessie” as she is affectionately known may just be in the mood to make a dramatic appearance! From Loch Ness we will then begin the journey south through the Kingdom of Fife and over the iconic Bridges that span the river Forth to Edinburgh where this insight into not only clan Robertson territory, but the Highlands itself, will finish.

Day 6 The Gathering events Day 7 The Gathering events Day 8 Depart for home

Clan MacGregor Clan MacGregor 8 Day Tour Visit the Scottish Highlands for a fascinating insight into the Clan MacGregor's history. We travel west past Stirling Castle and into the Highlands of Scotland. We will visit Balquhidder church where you can see the grave of the infamous highland outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor. From there we travel north past Loch Earn and onto the town of Dalmally. In Dalmally we will visit Dalmally Kirk, an ancient MacGregor burial site. See the MacGregor stronghold of Kilchurn Castle, nestled on the shores of the magnificient Loch Awe.

Day 1 Arrive Edinburgh. Check into accommodation Day 2 The Gathering events Day 3 The Gathering events

Day 4 Departing Edinburgh at 9am we travel west past Stirling Castle and into the Highlands of Scotland. Travelling through the beauty of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park we make our first stop at the visitor centre at Kilmahog. From there it is a short drive north to experience the serenity of Loch Lubnaig. After a short stop at Loch Lubnaig we continue north along the the shores of the loch, through the ancient village of Strathyre and into Balquhidder. In Balquhidder we will visit Balquhidder church where you can see the grave of the infamous highland outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor. From there we travel north past Loch Earn and onto the town of Dalmally. In Dalmally we will visit Dalmally Kirk, an ancient MacGregor burial site, before enjoying lunch at the friendly, family-run Glen Orchy Lodge Hotel. After lunch there is a short drive to the ancient MacGregor stronghold of Kilchurn Castle. Nestled on the shores of the magnificient Loch Awe and overlooked by the imposing Ben Cruachan, Kilchurn Castle has one of the most romantic settings of any castle in Scotland. From Kilchurn Castle we will make our way to the picturesque town of Inveraray. Here you have the opportunity to visit Inveraray Castle, seat of the Duke of Argyll. The castle has on display the sporran of Rob Roy MacGregor. We will spend the evening in Inveraray.

Day 5 Upon leaving Inveraray we will follow the shores of scenic Loch Fyne before travelling through the Arrochar Alps, past Loch Long and onto the beauty and splendour of Loch Lomond, Scotland’s most romantic loch. We will stop on Loch Lomond in the picturesque conservation village of Luss where you can see the workers cottage built in the 1750’s and even take a stroll along the beach. After our stop in Luss we continue down Loch Lomond and onto Glen Fruin, scene of a battle between the Colquhouns and the MacGregors in 1603, which led to the name MacGregor being proscribed, effectively turning the entire clan into outlaws. From Glen Fruin, we return to Loch Lomond and follow its shores eastwards as we make our way towards the village of Gartocharn, where we will stop for lunch. After lunch we make our way to the beautiful village of Balmaha. At Balmaha we will take a ferry out to Inchcailloch Island, ancient burial ground for the MacGregors and area of outstanding natural beauty. Upon returning to Balmaha, we will make the short trip to the historic town of Drymen where we will spend the night.

Day 6 In the morning we take the stunning journey along the road to Inversnaid where we will take a short walk to see Rob Roy’s Cave, one of the legendary outlaw’s favourite hiding places. After experiencing the glorious views of Loch Lomond from Inversnaid, we have a short drive before arriving at the town of Aberfoyle where we will have lunch. After lunch it is another short drive to MacGregor’s Barn, site of a farm dating back to 1474 and an annual gathering place for Clan Gregor for over 500 years. At MacGregor’s barn we will enjoy an afternoon of Highland history, including whisky tasting and afternoon tea. From there we return to Edinburgh, via the scenic Duke’s Pass and the beautiful Loch Achray.

Day 7 Edinburgh city tour Day 8 Depart for home

Clan MacLeod 8 Day Tour See where your ancestors lived - castles, graveyards, battle sites and clan monuments. This tour explores the ancestral lands of this mighty clan, taking you to the islands and across the Highlands in the north of Scotland. The islands have a legendary, wild beauty, with long stretches of golden, white sands, secluded coves and rugged hills.. Ancestral seat of the MacLeods, Dunvegan Castle, MacCrimmon Cairn, a memorial to the hereditary pipers of the MacLeods, Ardvreck Castle.Day 1: Arrive Edinburgh. Check into accommodation Day 2: The Gathering events Day 3: The Gathering events Day 4: Edinburgh city tourDay 5 Depart Edinburgh and travel west passing Linlithgow Palace and Stirling with its imposing castle and views of the Wallace Monument. We pass Doune Castle, set of Monty Python's "Holy Grail" before stopping in Callander for refreshments. Crossing into the Highlands we head north towards the glorious scenery surrounding Loch Luibnaig then through Breadalbane (meaning the 'high country of Scotland') and up to the wild desolation of Rannoch Moor. We continue through the spectacular mountain pass of Glencoe, scene of the great massacre of the Clan Macdonald in 1692. Leaving Fort William after lunch we drive past Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and into the Great Glen. Travelling west on the "Road to the Isles" we head through the splendour of the Five Sisters of Kintail, the mountains guarding the pass on the way to the Isle of Skye. We stop to visit the famous Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland's most photographed castles, set at the junction of 3 lochs and completely surrounded by water. Crossing over the bridge to Skye, we follow the dramatic coastline north towards the island's capital, Portree. You are then dropped off at your accommodation in the early evening where you are free to go out and explore the town.

Day 6 Leaving Portree, we travel West across Skye towards Dunvegan and the ancestral seat of the MacLeods, Dunvegan Castle. The MacLeods have been living in Dunvegan Castle for nearly 800 years and the castle contains many priceless MacLeod heirlooms including the fabled Fairy Flag of the Macleods. After visiting the castle we travel north to the ruins of Trumpan church, site of the battle of the Spoiled Dyke between the MacLeods and the MacDonalds. From Trumpan we travel west to Boreraig to visit the MacCrimmon Cairn, a memorial to the hereditary pipers of the MacLeods. A stop for lunch in the town of Dunvegan is followed by a trip around the Trotternish peninsula, taking in the ruins of Duntulm Castle and the beautiful splendour of the Skye scenery before returning to Portree for the evening.

Day 7 Departing Portree we make our way off the island, crossing the Skye Bridge, and head north through the stunning mountain scenery of Wester Ross. We will make a short stop to take in the splendour of Corrieshalloch Gorge before arriving for lunch in the picturesque harbour town of Ullapool. After lunch we continue north to Ardvreck Castle. Built by the MacLeods in 1590, Ardvreck Castle sits on the shores of beautiful Loch Assynt and is steeped in MacLeod lore. From Ardvreck Castle we turn eastwards and travel towards the spectacular Falls of Shin for a short break. From there it is a short drive south towards Inverness, the capital city of the highlands, where we will spend the night. Day 8 Leaving Inverness in the morning, it is a short trip to Culloden Battlefield, scene of the last battle ever fought on British soil, a battle which marked the end of the clan system in Scotland and the end of the Highland way of life. From Culloden we travel to the town of Dores to give you the opportunity to see the world’s most famous loch, Loch Ness. After a spot of monster-hunting we travel south towards Aviemore and the Rothiemurchus estate where we will stop for lunch. The tour then continues south to Dunkeld, the ancient capital of Scotland. A short stop in Dunkeld town centre is followed by a trip to the Dunkeld Hermitage where you will see some of the UK’s tallest trees as well as Ossian’s Hall, a 19th century victorian folly overlooking the spectacular falls of Braan. From here we head directly to Edinburgh, passing through the ancient kingdom of Fife and across the River Forth, taking in the grandeur of the Forth Rail Bridge along the way. Return to Edinburgh by 6pm.

Day 9: Depart for home

Clan Cameron 8 Day Tour Join us for a trip to Cameron country in the heart of the Scottish Highlands and enjoy some of the country’s greatest sights along the way. History, culture and folklore will abound as you explore famous locations such as Bannockburn, Stirling Castle, Glenfinnan and Culloden – not to mention the Clan Museum at Achnacarry. Combined with the spectacular Highland scenery of Glencoe, Loch Ness and Ben Nevis this is a truly memorable tour.

Day 1: Arrive Edinburgh. Check into accommodation Day 2: The Gathering events Day 3: The Gathering events Day 4: Edinburgh city tour Day 5: Free day in Edinburgh (optional day trips)

Day 6 From Edinburgh we head west towards Stirling, an area steeped in Scotland’s history, and stop first at Bannockburn where the Camerons fought bravely alongside Robert the Bruce in 1314. Next stop is one of the jewels in Scotland’s crown – imposing Stirling Castle. Heading into the Highlands we then pause for lunch before taking in the haunting mountain scenery of Glencoe. Then in the shadow of Scotland’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, you will feel the presence of Camerons past by visiting the clan burial grounds in Glen Nevis. Our final destination is the famous Highland town of Fort William where you will spend two nights.

Day 7 A day that will make you proud to be a Cameron as we take you to some of the clan’s most famous locations, concentrating on lovely Lochaber. First of all we take the scenic route along Loch Shiel to Glenfinnan. It was here, in 1745, that around 850 Camerons answered Bonnie Prince Charlie’s call and joined the Jacobite Rebellion of 1745 - it’s a simply stunning location. Next we visit the ghostly ruins of Tor Castle, the 16th century home of the Camerons of Locheil, before a must see for any descendant – the hereditary home and Clan Cameron Museum at Achnacarry. To complete a fantastic day we stop at the Commando Monument before a visit to the romantic setting of Cille Choirill church, first built in the 15th century by Ewan MacAllan, one of the great Cameron chiefs.

Day 8 Our final day starts with a raid into neighbouring clan lands and past Loch Lochy, where the Cameron’s fought in the bloody Battle of the Shirts in 1544. As we continue our journey north we arrive at the mysterious shores of Loch Ness, home of the famous monster. We take in the full 23 miles of the Loch as we head towards the Capital of the Highlands, Inverness, for our lunch stop. After lunch we make our way to Culloden where, in 1746, hundreds of Cameron’s perished in the last battle ever fought on the British mainland. You’ll have plenty of time to relive the battle at the new Visitor Centre and take a walk around the site to the Clan Cameron marker stone. Heading south our journey takes us through the Cairngorm National Park to Pitlochry for our final stop before returning to Edinburgh.

Day 9: Depart for home

Clan Ross This itinerary takes you to the ancestral lands of Ross in the Highlands and gives you a taste of island life on beautiful Skye. It will highlight just a few of the stories and places where Clan Ross chiefs and their descendants have left their mark

Clan McNab The History of the Clan: Like several other Highland clans, the Macnabs are of ecclesiastical origin. In Gaelic they are called Clann an Aba meaning "children of the Abbot" and claim descent from the abbots of Glendochart. The Macnabs suffered much in the early decades of the 14th century and after Bannockburn they lost all their possessions except for the Barony of Bovain in Glendochart which was confirmed to them by a charter by David II to Gilbert Macnab in 1336. The chief, had his residence at Kinnell, on the banks of the Dochart, and the family possessions, which originally were considerable, lay mainly on the western shores of Loch Tay. Archibald Corrie Macnab, who acquired the Killin estate to enable him to become the 22nd de facto chief. Archibald, having repurchased the Macnab lands in 1949, died in 1970 when the succession reverted to James Charles, James Alexander s eldest son, who is the present and 23rd chief. There is a Clan Society, with its headquarters in Edinburgh.

Clan Armstrong (Borders)The Armstrong clan was a powerful Border family, their origins reaching back to the Anglo-Danes of the eleventh century. The Scottish Borders, once a turbulent place known as reiving (cattle-rustling) country, was the home of raiding and marauding clanspeople, but is now a gentle and forgiving landscape of farming and tourism centered communities. This itinerary starts in the Scottish capital of Edinburgh, one of Europe's most beautiful cities, and takes you southwards to the fertile lands that border Scotland and England. These were the Debatable lands where wars and skirmishes between the English and the Scots took place until the 1600's. The Armstrongs played the roles of both protector and invader over their long history.

Clan Bruce (Borders, Elgin)The Clan Bruce is famous throughout the world for Robert The Bruce's victory against the English at Bannockburn, establishing Scotland's independence once and for all. But the Bruce family are an ancient and regal family with their roots in eleventh century France. This itinerary takes you around Scotland, from the Borders in the south up through the Scottish Highlands to Elgin, to find the stories, artifacts and landscapes on which the Bruce Clan have left their marks.

Clan Cumming(Inverness and River Spey)The Comyns (as they were originally known) established themselves in the ministry and judiciary of Scotland in the early 1100's, having arrived with William the Conqueror in England in 1066. They made their home in Badenoch, an ancient area south-east of Inverness, along the River Spey, at the foot of the Cairngorm Mountains. The Comyns married into the Scottish royal family and held three earldoms in Stirling and Perthshire. Fighting Robert the Bruce for the Scottish throne in the early 1300's all but wiped out this part of the family leaving the Altyre Cummings based in the Moray area.

Clan Douglas(Borders)Clan Douglas is the oldest and most famous of the Scottish Border Clans. Much of their homeland was in the area to the south of Edinburgh and as such witnessed many battles and skirmishes as the English and Scottish fought for the border lands. This itinerary takes you into the story of the Red and Black Douglases and offers you a chance to see the rolling hills, forests and countryside of the Borders, the rugged cliff tops and beautiful beaches of Berwickshire and the distant Scottish mountains.

Clan Lennox(Stirling and Dunbarton)The ancient and powerful Lennox Earldom included much of Dumbartonshire and parts of West Stirlingshire amongst other lands. The clan history is intertwined with that of Scotland's Kings and Queens and your ancestral journey will take you to some of Scotland's most famous historic sites.

Clan Montgomery(Glasgow, Arran)Golf enthusiasts will be familiar with the name Colin Montgomery, one of Britain's finest golfers. He was born in Glasgow. American history enthusiasts, too, will be familiar with the name: General Richard Montgomery was the first American general to die in the cause of independence in 1775. The Montgomery clan is one of the oldest known, Roger de Montgomery having arrived in England with William the Conqueror in 1066. His grandson went to Scotland and was granted lands in Renfrewshire by King David I. There were many branches of the clan and they expanded in the 14th Century after Sir John the 7th chief of the clan captured Harry Hotspur at the Battle of Otterburn. He acquired the baronies of Eglinton and Ardrossan through marriage and their grandson Alexander was created Lord Montgomery in 1449.

Nicolson History In modern Gaelic the name of this clan takes the form MacNeacail, the English version of the name taking the form MacNicol or Nicolson, depending on location. Tradition gives one branch of the family an extremely ancient origin in the lands between Assynt and Durness on the north coast of Scotland. Another tradition gives an equally ancient past in the Hebrides, where the Nicolsons held the lands of Scorrybreac, in Skye, as the principal tenants. The last chief of the clan to reside in Skye was Norman Nicolson of Scorrybreac who emigrated to New Zealand. His line continues in Australia, where the present chief of the West Highland Nicolsons has a sheep station named Scorrybreck. The name of Nicolson is found scattered throughout Scotland, with MacNicols being numerous is Argyll. There are even cases of the name Nicolson having roots as far south as Tyneside and Yorkshire. Many of the Nicolson clan became known for literary pursuits, one of the most famous being Alexander Nicolson who published the well-known "History of Skye".

Clan Murray The Murrays stand in history as a powerful and influential clan. It has been suggested that the Murrays have their origins in the Pictish kingdom of Moray. Upon the marriage of Sir William to the daughter of the seneschal of Strathearn in 1282, the lands of Tullibardine were passed to the clan. Sir William Murray of Tullibardine had seventeen sons many of whom became the progenitors of many other important branches of the Murrays. Sir John, 12th of Tullibardine was awarded with the title Lord Murray in 1604 and created an Earl only two years later. The 2nd Earl, William, was passed the earldom of Atholl through his wife and their son became the 1st Murray of Atholl in 1629; the Murrays of Atholl came into their own right to have a distinct history. Clan Murray Clan Murray was a great and powerful clan scattered throughout Scotland. It is said to originate from a Flemish knight who was granted lands in Linlithgowshire, to the south of Stirling, and later following his quelling of uprisings in the north, lands at Duffus, by the then King, David I. The Murrays flourished and played an important part in establishing Scotland's early independence and its subsequent protection and government. This itinerary takes you from the historic cities of Edinburgh and Stirling to the magnificent Highlands and Glens of Scotland to visit the lands of your ancestors. It will highlight just a few of the stories and places where Clan Murray chiefs and their followers have left their mark. You can experience the peace and tranquility of the inspiring Scottish landscapes, the evocative splendour of ancient castles, the hospitality of local people and much more.

Clan Sinclair (far north) The Sinclairs can trace their history back to the early middle ages, at which time they were a powerful family with an active role in The Crusades and the power politics of the time. As Earls of Orkney, Caithness and Shetland, the family was second in importance only to the King of Scotland. This itinerary focuses on the clan's intimate connections with the far north of Scotland and the islands that lie beyond its rugged coastline. Partly due to their geographical isolation, partly due to their links with successive generations of invading Norsemen, Orkney has retained its own distinctive identity and a trip to these isles offers an opportunity to experience a unique aspect of Scottish life.

Clan Wallace (near Stirling) William Wallace is undoubtedly a major figure in the history of Scotland, inextricably linked with the quest for freedom and independence. This itinerary will take you to places most closely associated with the Wallace clan, including the atmospheric battleground near Stirling where William Wallace won a famous victory against the English.

Clan Macfarlane (south Stirlingshire and in the lands of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park) This is an area of magnificent scenery which has inspired both paintings and literature alike. You will travel through the rolling lowlands, forests and woodlands towards the mountains in the north. Here we will highlight just a few of the stories and places where the Macfarlanes and their followers have left their mark. You can experience the peace and tranquillity of inspiring Scottish landscapes, the evocative splendour of ancient castles, the hospitality of the local people and much more.

Clan Lindsay (southern Lowlands and eastern Highlands) The Lindsays came to prominence in both Scotland and England in the eleventh century; their Scottish history took place in the lands of Lanarkshire and Midlothian in the southern Lowlands and in Fife, Angus and Kincardineshire in the eastern Highlands. Throughout the centuries there have been famous Lindsays in many fields, in the arts, literature, history, music, science, astronomy, the church and government. It is said that since 1147 Lindsays have held seats in almost every Parliament, either Scottish or English. This itinerary will take you to some of the places linked with these Lindsays and perhaps you will discover something about your own ancestors from the distant past.

Clan Gordon (North East) Known for its gentle beauty, renowned whisky distilleries and, in Balmoral Castle, its royal favor. This itinerary is centred around Aberdeen, the Granite City, where old maritime traditions meet the hi-tech wealth of the international oil industry. The clan Gordon was, at one time, the most powerful in the whole of the north of Scotland. The clan's chief, The Duke of Gordon, was a self-styled Cock of the North, someone who liked to flaunt his power and wealth. The Duke's most ancient title was the Gudeman of the Bog, from the Bog-of-Gight, a marshy morass in the parish of Bellie, Banffshire. This was the centre of his stronghold, home to Gordon Castle, once considered to be the most magnificent edifice in the north of Scotland.

Clan Napier Clan Napier is one of Scotland's smallest clans, but also amongst its oldest. An exploration of your Napier heritage will take you to the so-called central belt of Scotland, with the ancient capital city of Edinburgh as your main focus. Napier University in the heart of Edinburgh has a close connection with the clan and hosts its web site. The Napiers are believed to be descendants of the Celtic earldom of Lennox and there is a close similarity between the Napier and Lennox coats of arms. The name itself is almost certainly derived from the term 'Napper', the Keeper of the Linen in a royal or lordly household.

Clan Mackay The dramatic landscapes and seascapes of the North West of Scotland are the ancestral homeland of the proud Mackay clan and you will still meet many local people who will introduce themselves as "a Mackay from the land of Mackay". The land of Mackay was known as the Province of Strathnaver from the 11th century onwards, reflecting the independence of this ancient northern clan. But despite its loyalty to the government during the Jacobite rebellions, the Mackays were subjected to harsh clearances, some at the hands of the notorious Patrick Sellar, and in the 19th century the ancient Province became part of the present-day County of Sutherland.

Clan Leslie (Highlands, Abredeenshire)The Leslie Clan has a long and noble history. Bartholomew (or Bartolf) a Hungarian nobleman came to Scotland in 1067 and was the founder of this great Scottish family. They became the Earls of Rothes and Leven and created baronies of Ballinbreich, in Fife and Balquhain in Aberdeenshire. They held high positions in the government of Scotland and later played important roles in the battlegrounds of both Scotland and Europe. This itinerary takes you from the royal castles of Edinburgh and Stirling to the ancestral lands in Fife and north into the Scottish Highland to the ancestral lands in Aberdeenshire. It will highlight just a few of the stories and places where Clan Leslie chiefs and their descendants have left their mark. You can experience the peace and tranquillity of the inspiring Scottish landscapes, the evocative splendour of ancient castles, the hospitality of local people and much more.

Sutherland Clan: A territorial name from the county of Sutherland in the north east of Scotland. The family are probably of Flemish origin, descended from Freskin. William, the fifth Earl, was married first to Princess Margaret, daughter of Robert the Bruce and sister of David II. He was murdered in 1370 by the Mackays in a feud which was to last for at least the next four centuries. The death of the seventeenth Earl, leaving an only daughter, Elizabeth, led to a legal battle over the succession to the title. Her right as a woman to succeed was challenged. The House of Lords heard the case on 21 March 1771, and decided in Elizabeth s favour, confirming her as Countess of Sutherland in her own right. She married the Marquess of Stafford, of the prominent Leveson Gower family. He was later created first Duke of Sutherland in 1833. There is accordingly now a separate earldom and dukedom of Sutherland, and the holders of both titles still live in Scotland. The fairy tale Castle of Dunrobin, the principal seat of the chiefs and the largest house in the Highlands, remains in the family s possession, but is now open to the public.